February 2015
On the Brink: : Emily Birsan
Chicago-based lyric soprano Emily Birsan recently finished a three-year residency with Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center. Now with her first CD release last month and her debut at Florida Grand Opera next month, this young singer is quickly establishing herself as a singer on the rise. In this exclusive interview, she shares her experiences growing up in Wisconsin, how she first got her feet wet with classical music, and how she stays grounded in a highly competitive and cutthroat industry.
Ask Erda : Us vs. Them Part 2: Proposals for Improving the Audition Process
Continuing her discussion of the myriad of issues surrounding YAP fees, Cindy Sadler takes a look at what singers want from opera companies and the arguments for and against those wants.
Musings on Mechanics : Ribs Aloft, from Sternum to Bow
Your voice teacher has most likely told you, perhaps more than once, to keep your sternum high and rib cage expanded. But do you really know what this means and how to execute it? A better understanding of the muscles involved and physical skills required will lay the foundation.
The Doctor is In : Acupuncture: A Useful Option for Singers
Dr. Jahn lays out the benefits of acupuncture, including when it is useful, the advantages for singers specifically, and how it can aid with everything from
pain to stress relief.
From the Editor : The Price You (Still) Pay
In recent months, we have a run a series of articles on audition fees for singers. And in this issue, Cindy Sadler continues her discussion on the topic, outlining what singers specifically want to change about the current audition scene (p. 14). One argument that always emerges in such a discussion—and Sadler’s article is no exception—sums up like this: “Musical theatre auditions never require a fee!” An editorial I wrote in August 2009 is just as relevant today as it was then.
It Doesn’t Matter Where You Start
A pile of rejection letters doesn’t mean you’re not fit for this career. And just because you land one lead in a college production or spot in a coveted YAP also doesn’t guarantee a fast track to an international career. Consider the uncertainties of a singing career from a sports perspective to keep a better perspective.
The Tao of Breathing
How many times have you heard your voice teacher tell you to breathe? As the foundation of good singing, breath is emphasized again and again for singers. Consider this concept as many nonsingers see it for a fresh and grounding perspective.
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